S. T. Dupont Celebrates Leonardo Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man

Founded in 1872 by Simon Tissot-Dupont—hence the “S. T.” in the brand name—S. T. Dupont is known for such luxury items as lighters, pens, leather goods and other high-end accessories. Its pens are known worldwide for their singular beauty and thoughtful construction, often using urushi lacquer in their creation.

Its latest writing instrument collection celebrates the Vitruvian Man, an artistic masterpiece drawn by Italian Renaissance artist and scientist, Leonardo Da Vinci. One of the most iconic images in western art history, Vitruvian Man (c. 1490) depicts a man with arms and legs outstretched in two superimposed images in both a circle and a square. It is said to represent the epitome of proportion and represents Da Vinci’s attempts to relate man to nature.

S. T. Dupont Vitruvian Man Pen Collection

S. T. Dupont uses its Line D Large writing instrument as the canvas for this dramatic depiction of Vitruvian Man, rendered on the gold vermeil overlay beneath which deep blue lacquer offers a stunning contrast. And here’s where the Paris-based company’s well-practiced artisans show off their talents at the company’s manufactory in Faverges, carving the intricate overlay and hand-applying up to nine layers of natural blue lacquer to the pen body and cap.

Natural lacquer, for which S. T. Dupont is acclaimed, here lends a unique patina with a pearl-like shimmer that is resistant to shocks, scratches and even fire. The solid brass substructure upon which the lacquer is applied adds heft and balance that ensure a pleasant writing experience.

The pen cap closes with Dupont’s iconic “ping” sound effect made famous by its lighters. The fluted gripping section allows for a comfortable non-slip hold while writing, and the articulated clip is decorated with the Dupont insignia. Finally the Dupont “D” embellishes the cap crown.

The collection is available as a fountain pen and a rollerball. The fountain pen is fitted with a 14-karat yellow gold nib, available in extra fine, fine, medium and broad widths. The pens may be filled with ink via an included ink cartridge or via bottled ink using the included converter. Each pen is presented in a luxury black lacquered box. The rollerball pen is priced at $1,895, while the fountain pen is priced at $1,995.

Celebrating 150 Years

Just last year S. T. Dupont celebrated is 150^th anniversary with several new products. In the realm of pens, the limited edition Hôtel Particulier convertible writing instrument paid tribute to the company’s first boutique and atelier, located at 8 bis rue Dieu in Paris in the prestigious Republique neighborhood. There, back in the day, 60 artisans spread out over three floors (later growing to welcome 250 artisans) crafted the company’s collections and one-of-a-kind pieces.

The S.T. Dupont Line D Hôtel Particulier pen may be converted from an 18-karat gold-nibbed fountain pen to a rollerball and back again. The cap is finished in gold, and it is finely engraved with the iconic S.T. Dupont diamond head pattern. The barrel of the pen is crafted in blue lacquer.

The limited edition pen comes with a bronze stand that evokes the Hôtel Particulier, and only 150 pieces—pens and stands—were created for distribution worldwide. The collection also includes a Line 2 lighter.